You probably know I don’t consider myself especially crafty, yet I’m always attracted to simple, pretty projects. I love the idea of crafting even when my attempts haven’t always gone smoothly.
Over the years my more ambitious projects have taught me an important lesson: keep it simple. Complicated tools and intricate steps usually mean frustration for me, so I focus on easy, low-risk crafts that deliver a great result without the drama.
I avoid hammers, knives, nail guns, sewing machines and power tools. I prefer projects that are straightforward and safe. Once you know your limits, you can pick projects that are enjoyable and predictable instead of stressful.
Finding the crafts that work for you brings confidence. If complicated projects aren’t your thing, that’s fine — choose simple ideas that you can repeat and tweak over time. That’s how you build a reliable repertoire of décor you love.
One of my go-to projects is Mason Jar candles. I’ve used them for every holiday and season because they’re versatile and nearly foolproof. The basic idea is the same: a filler at the bottom and a small votive candle. I usually use Epsom salt as a filler — it looks like snow in winter and like sand in summer. Simple swaps like rocks, candy or cranberries also work well.
You really can’t go wrong with this project. The main tip is to keep the candle color safe — white candles are reliable. Brightly colored candles can create unexpected messes when they melt, so stick with neutral tones if you want a clean result.
After blogging for a while, I wanted to give my classic Mason Jar candle a fresh, seasonal twist. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel — small updates can make a familiar craft feel new and festive.
With a rustic, country-inspired look in mind, I created a holiday version that’s quick to assemble and looks charming grouped on a mantel or table.
Behold my new Christmas 2010 Mason Jar:
Meet the Jingle Bell Jar — a simple Mason Jar candle dressed up with rustic twine and a few jingle bells for seasonal charm.
How to make a Jingle Bell Jar
Make a Mason Jar candle as usual: add filler and place a small votive inside. Wrap the jar mouth with jute twine and thread a few jingle bells onto the twine. If you prefer a neat look, secure the twine with glue in even rows. Or embrace a more relaxed, casual style and wrap it loosely for a homespun feel. For extra sparkle, tuck in a few small snowflake brads and lightly spray with glitter. That’s it — simple and effective.
If you like, hang a tiny ornament or small bauble from the twine to personalize each jar for different spots in your home.
Here is my Fall into Winter version:
The Cinnamon Stick Mason Jar.
Cinnamon sticks around the jar add warm color and a lovely scent — a great choice for fall and winter gatherings.
For lovebirds:
Key to Your Heart Mason Jar
This version is perfect for Valentine’s Day, anniversaries or as a sweet housewarming gift. Add a small decorative key or heart charm to the twine and use soft-colored filler for a romantic touch.
A preview from my summer collection:
The Starfish Mason Jar.
For a beach-themed version, swap the filler for sand or small shells and attach a starfish or beach charm to the twine. It’s a fresh, seasonal twist that works well for warm-weather décor.
Now I’m just showing off.
But really, once you discover a few go-to variations, you can mix and match elements — twine, bells, cinnamon, shells — to suit any season or celebration.
Glitter plans coming soon.
Glitter can add a festive shimmer when used sparingly. Try a light spray on twine or a few brads to catch the light without overwhelming the jar’s simple charm.
Related post:
DIY: Glittery Snow for your Mason Jar and Candles
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